Optimism at Japanese companies is on the rise for the first time in 18 months, thanks to a rebound in exports on a weakened yen. The election of Donald Trump brought a big slide in the currency, breathing new life into the country’s drive to escape deflation and boosting the BOJ’s Tankan survey. Sentiment at large manufacturers rose from +6 to +10 in December, while the index for all companies increased from +5 to +7.